Serra Da Estrela Walking Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival

Your tour begins in the medieval town of Celorico da Beira in Central Portugal’s Guarda District. The historic town surrounded by staggering medieval walls is home to a spectacular gothic castle and stunning Baroque-style churches.

If your arrival time permits, spend some time exploring this ancient town and soaking up its sights, sounds, and flavours!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Celorico da Beira
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Walk the Serra do Ralo and the Village of Linhares

Your walking tour begins today with a scenic jaunt through an open area leading you to the top of the Serra do Ralo, where a sprawling windfarm home to sixteen turbines unfolds. Sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape envelop you as you descend through dense pine and oak forest and sweeping pastures to the beautiful medieval village of Linhares.

While meandering the picturesque town, be sure to visit Linhares Castle, the Roman Forum, and the Royal Houses!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Linhares
Distance: 6 hours, 16 km, 620m of ascent, 350m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Walk the Beautiful Villages of Folgosinho and Manteigas

Today’s walk is equal in challenge and reward! Following breakfast, a short taxi transfer will take you to the beginning of the route in Folgosinho.

Traversing a spectacularly remote area, you’ll embark on a series of ascents and descents along an old Roman road through a scenic valley. From the route’s highest point at Portella do Folgosinho, you’ll find sensational views of the Pico de La Torre.

The route proceeds through further valleys and forests and ends with a steep descent in the village of Manteigas, found in a beautiful glacier valley nestled beneath towering peaks.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Manteigas
Distance: 7 hours, 22 km, 700m of ascent, 550m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Explore the Heart of the Serra da Estrela

There are two route options to choose from today.

Option 1: Enjoy a low-key day, visiting a local trout farm and enjoying the pretty village of Manteigas at your leisure.

Option 2: Visit the thundering waterfall of Poço do Inferno (1290m, 4232 ft), enjoying a scenic walk through the Buraco Valley.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Manteigas
Distance: Option 1: Flexible
Option 2: 6 hours, 14 km, 650m of ascent, 650m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Walk to the Pousada de São Lorenço

Today your route takes you north of Manteigas on a historic trail under the shade of fragrant pine forest as you make your way to Pousada de São Lorenço, where you’ll be met with stunning views of the Manteigas Valley.

The rest of the route unfolds amidst colourful farmland before a final descent leads you back to Manteigas.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Manteigas
Distance: 6 hours, 14 km, 630m of ascent, 630m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Choice of Scenic Walks from La Torre to Loriga

There are two route options to choose from today.
Option 1:
Explore the dazzling glacial valley of Zézere as you make your way to La Torre, walking among scenic mountains, meadows, and forest.

Option 2:
A short transfer will take you to La Torre Recreation Area, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the granite massif of Serra da Estrela and the prehistoric glacial valleys. The route unfolds on narrow lanes, traversing lofty pastures, stark peaks, and sparkling lakes, eventually leading you to the village of Loriga.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Loriga
Distance: Option 1: 6 hours, 18 km, 110m of ascent, 110m of descent
Option 2: 5 hours, 12 km, 50m of ascent, 120m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Más Tumba, Cabeça da Velha and the Village of São Romão

Your final day of walking will take you inland on a spectacular route through enchanting woods, passing several lovely villages along the way and the exciting sites of Más Tumba and Cabeça da Velha.

Reaching tonight’s overnight location in the pleasant village of São Romão, you’ll make yourself at home in the beautifully renovated “quinta” (country house) located just outside the village.
Overnight Location: Hotel in São Romão
Distance: 7 hours, 19 km, 775m of ascent, 550m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Departure

This morning your walking tour comes to an end. Check out of your accommodations and head to the airport to depart.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast